Asbestos warning to all these with houses constructed earlier than 2000 | UK | News | EUROtoday

Homeowners planning renovations this coming yr might be placing their youngsters’s well being in danger with out realising it, specialists have warned, as asbestos continues to be uncovered in properties throughout the UK. Often hidden behind partitions, ceilings and flooring, asbestos continues to be being disturbed throughout on a regular basis dwelling enchancment work, regardless of many individuals believing it’s a downside of the previous.

The UK Health and Safety Executive estimates that houses constructed earlier than 2000 include some type of asbestos. Now, Mat Stewart, an asbestos professional at Sundemolition, has mentioned that the fabric is commonly discovered solely after work is below means.

“Asbestos is commonly found by accident when homeowners drill into walls, strip ceilings, or lift old flooring. By that point, fibres may already have been released, which understandably causes concern for families,” he mentioned.

The professional has additionally shared 5 warning indicators that each house owner ought to concentrate on if at the moment planning adjustments to their dwelling.

Asbestos is a bunch of naturally occurring fibrous minerals previously used for warmth and corrosion resistance in constructing supplies resembling ceiling tiles and roofing shingles, and insulation. While not hazardous when undisturbed, broken asbestos releases microscopic fibres that trigger extreme ailments, resembling mesothelioma, lung most cancers and asbestosis – a persistent lung illness – if inhaled or ingested. It was extensively used till being banned in lots of international locations, together with the UK in 1999, nevertheless it stays in lots of older constructions.

Mr Stewart has issued a warning to all these whose property was constructed earlier than the yr 2000.

He mentioned: “Many homeowners assume their property is too new to be affected, but asbestos-containing materials are still found in buildings constructed well into that period.”

He additionally revealed that textured ceilings or partitions, together with Artex – a model of textured plaster coating widespread within the Seventies and 80s – are one of the widespread sources of asbestos.

“Even minor drilling or sanding can disturb the material and release fibres into the air.”

Old garages, sheds or outbuilding roofs also have a high risk of containing asbestos.

He mentioned: “Asbestos cement was widely used in roofing panels. As these materials age, crack or weather, the risk of fibre release increases significantly.”

Mr Stewart explained damaged insulation or pipe lagging are also among “the highest-risk asbestos materials found in homes”.

He said: “If insulation around pipes or boilers appears frayed or crumbly, it should be treated as a serious hazard.”

Finally, extra care should be taken if lifting old vinyl floor tiles, which, along with the adhesive beneath them, “typically contained asbestos”.

“They grow to be notably harmful when damaged or eliminated throughout refurbishment work,” the expert added.

Asbestos should never be handled without professional advice, Mr Stewart warned.

He mentioned: “While asbestos can be managed safely, problems arise when people unknowingly disturb it. The key is awareness. If asbestos is suspected, work should stop immediately, and a professional survey should be carried out to protect both health and property.”